JOHANNESBURG - Climate change is projected to have a significant negative influence on the upkeep of water infrastructure.
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To prevent a catastrophe, South Africa must confront threats to its water security.
Water scientist and expert, Anthony Turton, says at the moment the main problem is institutional failure.
He said, "the reality is that our dams are pretty much the fullest for a long period of time, certainly the integrated Vaal river system is the fullest I've seen it for many, many years."
"We can't really talk about climate change at the moment. Our main problem right now is institutional failure. But climate change is an important target that we stay abreast of."
He said long-term planning, infrastructure and mitigating features to insulate the country from extreme weather events is key to preparing for the possibilities of climate change.